Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla to Pilot Historic Ax-4 Space Mission from Florida

After nearly four decades, India is poised to return to manned space exploration with Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, a distinguished Indian Air Force pilot and astronaut, who will soar into the cosmos as part of Axiom Space’s Ax-4 mission. The launch is scheduled for June 10 at 5:52 PM IST from Kennedy Space Centre, Florida, marking a monumental occasion for the country and rekindling memories of Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma’s legendary 1984 flight.

Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla will be accompanied by three international astronauts on this journey to the International Space Station (ISS), where they are expected to dock after a 28-hour flight, on June 11. This mission not only reinforces India’s commitment to global space collaboration but also highlights the rise of Indian talent on the international stage.

Shubhanshu Shukla: Lucknow’s Hero, the Nation’s Pride

Back in Lucknow, the hometown of Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, pride and anticipation have enveloped the Shukla household. The entire family is united in hope, celebration, and prayer. His sister, Suchi Shukla, a science teacher, shared their emotional rollercoaster:

“He’s been in quarantine for two weeks, but he makes time for a daily video call. His wife, Dr. Kamna Shubha Shukla, and their five-year-old son are with him in Florida. We’re excited, nervous, but mostly proud.”

The family is preparing to watch the launch together, with another sister traveling from Noida to join the home-front celebration. Suchi adds, “Shubhanshu wants this mission to inspire children and youth across India. He always dreamt of going to space—and now he carries the dreams of a billion people.”

A Taste of India in Space

Adding a heartwarming cultural touch to this historic mission, Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla will carry Indian delicacies with him into orbit. His payload includes moong dal halwa, gajar ka halwa, aamras, and rice—all space-approved after scrutiny.

“He fought for those dishes to be allowed,” laughs Suchi. “He’s a health-conscious person and practices yoga religiously, so he’ll keep the balance. But it’s special—sharing Indian food among international astronauts is a matter of pride.”

Prayers and Tradition

In Lucknow, spiritual ceremonies are in full swing. His father, Shambhu Dayal Shukla, a retired government official, explained:

“We’ve organized a Satyanarayan katha and hawan. The entire community is praying. We’re confident. This is not just a mission—it’s a moment in Indian history.”

His mother, Astha Shukla, filled with motherly warmth, adds, “Woh bahut excited hai ki woh Bharat ke liye kuch alag kar raha hai. Bas bhagwan kare jaldi wapas aa jaaye.”

Personal Mementos

While strict space protocols restrict what astronauts can reveal about their items, Suchi suspects Shubhanshu is carrying family photos. “He can’t say exactly, but we’ll find out once he returns. Whatever he brings back will become cherished memorabilia—certified as having travelled to space.”

Shubhanshu Shukla: Celebrations at His Alma Mater

City Montessori School (CMS), Lucknow, where Shubhanshu studied, is preparing a grand celebration. School authorities have organised a “YyomNite Carnival” at the Kanpur Road branch on the launch day. Students, teachers, and parents will come together to cheer for their star alumnus.

“Our students are electrified. Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla carries not just our hopes but also our dreams into orbit,” says Prof. Geeta Gandhi Kingdon, President of CMS. “His research in space will contribute to humanity’s progress.”

The carnival will include live streaming of the launch, activity zones, space exploration exhibits, and a mock mission control centre, ensuring the spirit of space exploration inspires the next generation.

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